Let’s be clear: you should always get a home inspection before buying a house — no matter how pretty, how new, or how convincing the seller seems.

Buying without an inspection is like buying a car without popping the hood. And in Florida? With our weather, insurance rules, and charming mix of hurricanes and humidity? It’s even more important.

✅ Why It Matters:

An inspection is your chance to:

• Uncover hidden issues (foundation cracks, electrical hazards, roof leaks)

• Understand the age and condition of major systems

• Negotiate repairs or credits before closing

• Walk away if it’s a money pit

Even new construction homes can have issues — and an inspector who works for you will point them out before you’re stuck footing the bill.

🧰 Types of Home Inspections You May Need

Here’s a breakdown of the most common inspections and what they cover:

🏠 1. General Home Inspection (Always get this)

The standard, full-body checkup for the home. It typically covers:

• Roof, attic, and structure

• HVAC system

• Electrical panels and outlets

• Plumbing and visible leaks

• Appliances, doors, and windows

• Visible signs of pests or water damage

📌 Think of this as your "peace of mind" inspection.

🔧 2. Four-Point Inspection

Required by most Florida insurance companies for homes over 20 years old.
It focuses on:

• Roof

• Plumbing

• HVAC

• Electrical

⚠️ If these systems are outdated or in poor condition, you might not get insurance — or pay way more.

🐜 3. WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) Inspection

Commonly called a termite inspection, but it checks for more than that — including wood rot and other pests that destroy homes from the inside out.
In some counties or with certain loan types (like VA), this is required.

🌊 4. Wind Mitigation Inspection

Want a discount on your homeowner’s insurance? This one’s worth it. It looks at how well your home will hold up in high winds (roof type, straps, impact windows, etc.)

💧 5. Septic, Well, Pool, Mold, or Foundation Inspections

Depending on the home, you might need specialty inspections.
If you’re buying a home with:

• A pool 🏊‍♂️ = Pool inspection

• Septic system = Septic tank & drain field inspection

• Musty smell or prior water damage = Mold inspection

• Cracks in walls = Foundation inspection

📝 Final Word:

An inspection might cost a few hundred dollars — but skipping it could cost you thousands.
It’s not about being picky. It’s about buying smart and protecting your future.